New Jersey Explores Privately Owned Roads
New York, NY —
New Jersey is considering whether to let private companies run the state's highways and tolls, but a new report is urging caution.
REPORTER: The Regional Plan Association, a local non-profit group, says it isn't supporting or opposing a public-private partnership because there's no legislation yet. A senior policy analyst for the RPA, Alexis Perrotta says the state must hold public discussions and ensure that any profits from a partnership go straight back into transportation.
PERROTTA: Any kind of revenue that the state raises should be spent on long term, long lasting assets. Capital assets, transportation related assets.
REPORTER: The New Jersey Turnpike Authority collects over $700 million annually in tolls, which is spent on operation and debt service. Supporters of the proposal say private firms can do the job more efficiently. Public-private partnerships are already in place in Chicago and Indiana.
